Aspect Patterns
Sometimes the aspects in a chart join up into a shape. Three or more planets, each linked to the others, form a pattern, and a pattern works as one unit. It often becomes the theme a chart is organised around.
T-Square. An opposition with a third planet square to both. The tension gathers at the apex planet, which becomes the outlet and the drive.
The main patterns are the grand trine, the T-square, the grand cross, the yod, the kite, the mystic rectangle and the stellium. Each one is built from simple aspects, so once you know the aspects you can read the shapes.
To spot a pattern, look at the aspect lines in the middle of a chart. Triangles, crosses and long narrow shapes stand out. Then check the elements and modalities of the planets involved: a grand trine usually sits in one element, a T-square or grand cross in one modality, and that tells you its flavour.
The Grand Trine in Astrology
A grand trine is three planets each 120 degrees apart, usually in one element - a closed circle of ease and talent. Learn how to spot a grand trine, what it means in your chart, its hidden challenge, and how to work with it.
The T-Square in Astrology
A T-square is two planets in opposition, both square a third planet at the apex - one of the most dynamic patterns in astrology. Learn how to spot a T-square, what the apex and the empty leg mean, and how to work with it.
The Grand Cross in Astrology
A grand cross is four planets in two oppositions linked by four squares - a pattern of pressure from every side and great staying power. Learn how to spot a grand cross, what it means in your chart, and how to work with it.
The Yod in Astrology
A yod is two planets in sextile, both quincunx a third planet at the apex - sometimes called the finger of fate. Learn how to spot a yod, what the apex planet means, and how to work with this unusual pattern.
The Kite in Astrology
A kite is a grand trine with a fourth planet opposite one corner and sextile the other two - easy talent given a direction. Learn how to spot a kite, what its tail means, and how to work with it.
The Mystic Rectangle in Astrology
A mystic rectangle is four planets forming two oppositions, linked by two trines and two sextiles - tension held in a stable frame. Learn how to spot a mystic rectangle, what it means, and how to work with it.
The Stellium in Astrology
A stellium is three or more planets in one sign or house - a concentration of energy that becomes a centre of gravity in the chart. Learn how to spot a stellium, what it means, and how to work with it.